The Spanish side are the current holders of the competition and face Czech outfit Viktoria Plzen at Vicente Calderon tonight in group B, as they look to record a 15th straight win in European competition.

Simeone however, has stated he is not flustered the burden of expectation on his shoulders as the capital club look to retain their crown.

“It is logical that we are among the important teams [in the Europa League], but the past year is behind us,” the Argentine told AS.

“It is normal that the supporters delude themselves, but we only think about the next game. These are numbers that the press continue [to remind us of], and that's fine.”

Atletico are currently top of Group B, having beaten Hapoel Tel Aviv 3-0 in their opening game two weeks ago.